The British executive tipped to take over the helm at chip maker Intel is taking extended medical leave after suffering a stroke.

Sean Maloney, 53 - who heads the sales division of the world's biggest computer chip company - became unwell over the weekend, the company said. It added that he has an "excellent" chance of making a full recovery, and is expected to return to work in several months.

"I visited with Sean and his sense of humour and determination to return to work fill the room," said Paul Otellini, the company's president and chief executive. "We wish him a speedy recovery and look forward to his return."

After an early career in programming, the Londoner joined Intel in 1982 and spent several years working for the company's European arm. He then rocketed through the ranks after being handpicked to be an assistant to Andy Grove, the former Intel boss credited with turning it into one of the world's most powerful technology companies. Since then he has been widely tipped as a future successor to Otellini, and is responsible for overseeing sales and marketing around the world.

Based at the company's headquarters in California, Maloney told the Guardian last year that he spends around 80% of his time travelling.